5 Stones

What inspired you to start this business?

Ten years ago, when Lighthouse Catholic Media was merged into the Augustine Institute, it became clear that this apostolate (and many others) would greatly benefit from a truly Catholic organization that provided state-of-the-art business support services. What if there were an Agency that could offer marketing and design services with an authentically Catholic voice and sensibility? How about one that could create websites and provide technology consultation and solutions with an intimate understanding of the needs of a Catholic organization? In the face of soulless call centers, was there not a need for an organization that answered phones and emails and provided customer support, not just efficiently and professionally, but with true concern and love for both the Catholic company and their customers? What if there was a warehouse that could provide the service expected of any top tier secular fulfillment center, but was willing to handle the unique needs of Catholic organizations—fulfillment to individuals, stores, wholesalers, and parishes (with seasonal spikes)—while bending over backward to meet any and all special needs. And, most importantly, to pick every item and pack every box with the goal of evangelizing the world? And what if one devoutly Catholic organization could provide all of these services for the Catholic world? It was with this goal in mind that 5 Stones was conceived.

How does your faith shape your work?

Our business is all about Jesus. Being a Catholic business is central to who we are. At the heart of our building is a chapel. And in the heart of that chapel: Him. Jesus—Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity—dwells in the center of our workplace. We build systems. We write copy. We ship pallets and plan launches. But we do it all with our eyes fixed on him. Before we serve our clients, before we solve any problem, we step into the chapel and remember who we’re really working for.

What's a favorite patron saint or scripture?

Our name comes from the most well-known underdog story of all time—David facing down Goliath in 1 Samuel 17. When young David entered the valley, he knew two things: 1) He knew the power of the giant in his way. 2) He knew God had called him to the battle anyway. What did David take with him into battle? Confidence in his God, a sling, and five smooth stones. This Bible passage is a constant source of inspiration and consolation for our team. We encourage each new employee to pray lectio divina with our founding Scripture to hear what the Lord has to say to them through this story, and our existing employees continue to find new depth each time they pray with it.

What's one thing you'd like customers to know?

God is doing something amazing. And we are grateful to be a part of it! Catholic leaders and organizations around the world are doing amazing things. They pour themselves out following the Lord's will as they grow their God-given mission! 5 Stones is blessed to support those organizations behind the scenes, helping them overcome the obstacles that get in their way. Whether those obstacles are creating a brand and communications strategy, figuring out packing and shipping logistics, building websites, or even just answering customer phone calls and emails, 5 Stones is supporting amazing Catholic organizations across the country. 5 Stones is the leading expert for Catholic services like order fulfillment, marketing, customer service, and technology. If God has called you to do something amazing, but you feel held back from really focusing on your mission, we'd be honored to partner with you and support your mission. God can do amazing things with your “yes.” We’ve had the honor of walking alongside both leaders of well-known apostolates and smaller ministries as they pursued the Lord’s call. You can read some of the stories at weare5stones.com/case-studies !